Bacterial Leaf Blight (bacterium - Erwinia Stewartii): This disease is also called Stewart's bacterial wilt, Stewart's leaf blight and maize bacteriosis, and is rarely found in Texas. Leaves show linear, pale green-yellow streaks with irregular margins that parallel veins. These streaks become dry and brown. Plants produce premature, bleached, dead tassels. Severely infected plants form cavities in the pith of the lower stalk and the bacteria spread through the vascular system into the kernels. Chewing insects, such as flea beetles, wireworms, root worms and May beetles can spread the bacterium. Field corn is more resistant than sweet corn. Control by using resistant hybrids and control chewing insects.
